Originally Posted by PtsJunkieWI

Purchasing a device doesn't net the 5x points.

However, noted on some blog I was perusing yesterday, you can put the cost of the phone on your normal monthly bill, with some carriers. Specifically, VZN was mentioned. This *may* make the purchase act like being billed for services and qualify for the 5x points. Report back if it does. ;-)

You're probably better off using some of the trade-in deals that are going on, where you get $100 off (essentially a 5c for free), for trading in an old cell phone. That's equivalent of 10k points.. vs. maybe 2500 or so for a $500 purchase @5x points. Discount > pts value, if you can get it.